Heating system for transdermally delivered materials

ABSTRACT

In one example, a heating system is provided that is suitable for use with materials for topical application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject. The heating system includes a heating element and a container. The container includes a container body configured to enclose a portion of the heating element when the heating element is engaged with the container body, and the container further includes a removable lid configured to be attached to the container body.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application hereby claims priority to: U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. 62/002,716, entitled HEATING SYSTEM FOR TRANSDERMALLY DELIVERED MATERIALS, and filed on May 23, 2014; and, U.S. Design patent application, Ser. 29/493,849, entitled HEATING SYSTEM FOR TRANSDERMALLY DELIVERED MATERIALS, and filed on Jun. 13, 2014. All of the aforementioned applications are incorporated herein in their respective entireties by this reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Example embodiments disclosed herein generally concern a heating system operable to heat materials intended for dermal application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject.

BACKGROUND

A variety of materials can be delivered dermally and/or transdermally to a subject. These materials can be used in fields such as medicine, therapy, nutrition, cosmetology, and diagnostics. Such materials can include, for example, drugs, medicines, nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and beauty products. In many instances, these materials are in the form of, or carried by, a gel, salve, cream, lotion, balm or ointment that can be readily applied to the skin of a subject.

In order to improve the speed and efficiency with which such materials are delivered, it can be useful to heat those materials before application. For example, heat can aid in transdermal absorption of drugs, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. As well, a heated material, such as an ultrasound gel for example, may be more comfortable and pleasant for the person or other subject to whom it is applied.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME ASPECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein do not constitute an exhaustive summary of all possible embodiments, nor does this brief summary constitute an exhaustive list of all aspects of any particular embodiment(s). Rather, this brief summary simply presents selected aspects of some example embodiments. It should be noted that nothing herein should be construed as constituting an essential or indispensable element of any invention or embodiment. Rather, various aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined in a variety of ways so as to define yet further embodiments. Such further embodiments are considered as being within the scope of this disclosure. As well, none of the embodiments embraced within the scope of this disclosure should be construed as resolving, or being limited to the resolution of, any particular problem(s). Nor should such embodiments be construed to implement, or be limited to implementation of, any particular technical effect(s) or solution(s).

Disclosed embodiments are generally concerned with a heating system that can be used to heat materials intended for topical application and/or transdermal delivery of various materials to a subject such as a human or animal. Embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include any one or more of the following elements, and features of elements, in any combination: a container defining an interior recess configured to receive a portion of a heating element; a heating element configured to be removably received in an interior recess of a container; a heating element generally in the shape of a cone or pyramid; a heating element and associated container configured to mate with each other in such a way that the heating element heats materials in the container from the inside of the container; a heating element and associated container that collectively define a male/female interface; a heating element that has a concave side or surface configured to interface with a corresponding concave side or surface of a container; a heating element generally in the form of an annular ring that can be removably received in an annular slot defined by a corresponding container, the annular slot extending around an interior space defined by the container; a heating element that can be powered by A/C and/or D/C current; a heating element and associated container configured so that when the heating element is received in the container, the container is not rotatable relative to the heating element; a heating element and associated container configured so that when the heating element is received in the container, the container is rotatable relative to the heating element; a heating element and associated container, where the container is configured to enclose a portion of the heating element; a heating element that includes one or more extended surfaces for heat transfer; a heating element removably, or permanently, attached to a base; a heat sensitive element in thermal communication with the heating element and/or container, where the heat sensitive element changes color in relation to a relative temperature of one or more of the container, heating element, or material disposed in the container; a base that is weighted; a heating element removably, or permanently, attached to an associated container; a heating element and associated container configured for threading engagement with each other; a heating element that substantially comprises metal or ceramic; a heating element that includes a rubber or plastic coating; a container substantially made of metal, plastic, ceramic, or any combination of these; a container that includes a lid; a container that is disposable; a container that includes thermal insulation; a heating element whose output can be adjusted so that the heating element operates over a range of temperatures; a control system configured to automatically adjust and/or maintain a temperature of a heating element; and, a control system configured to automatically turn a heating element on and/or off.

Following is a non-exclusive list of embodiments within the scope of the invention. It should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in other ways to define still further embodiments.

In a first example embodiment, a heating element and container are provided, where the heating element is received in an interior portion of the container.

In a second example embodiment, a heating element and container are provided, where the heating element is configured to be removably received in a recess defined by the container.

In a third example embodiment, a heating element and container are provided, where the heating element is generally cone or pyramid shaped and is configured to be removably received in a correspondingly shaped recess of the container.

In a fourth example embodiment, a heating element and container are provided, where the heating element is electrically powered and is configured to be removably received in a corresponding recess defined by the container.

In a fifth example embodiment, a heating element and container are provided, where when the heating element is received in an interior portion of the container and is initially activated, materials in an inner portion of the container are heated before materials located at an outer portion of the container.

In a sixth example embodiment, a heating element and container are provided, where the container is configured to enclose a portion of the heating element.

In a seventh example embodiment, a heating element and container are provided, where the heating element is received in an interior portion of the container, and the container includes a volume of material that is heated by the heating element when the heating element is activated.

The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described herein may be practiced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of some example embodiments to further clarify various aspects of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only some embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit its scope in any way. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an example heating system;

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of another example heating system;

FIG. 3 is a side view of example heating systems of different sizes;

FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of an example configuration of a heating element;

FIG. 5 includes assembled and exploded views of an example heating system;

FIG. 5 a is another view of the example heating system disclosed in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is a section view of an example heating system;

FIG. 6 a is another view of the example heating system of FIG. 6;

FIGS. 7 a and 7 b are section and perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;

FIGS. 8 a and 8 b are section and perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b are section and perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;

FIGS. 10 a and 10 b are section and perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system;

FIGS. 11 a and 11 b are section and perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of a heating system; and

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example heating system and control system.

FIG. 13 a is a front elevation view of a first additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);

FIG. 13 b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 13 a;

FIG. 13 c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 13 a;

FIG. 14 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 13 a;

FIG. 14 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 13 a;

FIG. 15 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 13 a;

FIG. 16 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a second additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views for the second embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of FIGS. 13 a-15);

FIG. 16 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 a;

FIG. 16 c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 a;

FIG. 17 a is a front elevation view of a third additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);

FIG. 17 b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 a;

FIG. 17 c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 a;

FIG. 18 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 a;

FIG. 18 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 a;

FIG. 19 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 17 a;

FIG. 20 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a fourth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views for the fourth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of FIGS. 17 a-19);

FIG. 20 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 20 a;

FIG. 20 c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 20 a;

FIG. 21 a is a front elevation view of a fifth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);

FIG. 21 b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 a;

FIG. 21 c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 a;

FIG. 22 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 a;

FIG. 22 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 a;

FIG. 23 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 a;

FIG. 24 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a sixth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views for the sixth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of FIGS. 21 a-23);

FIG. 24 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 24 a;

FIG. 24 c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 24 a;

FIG. 25 a is a front elevation view of a seventh additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);

FIG. 25 b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 25 a;

FIG. 25 c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 25 a;

FIG. 26 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 25 a;

FIG. 26 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 25 a;

FIG. 27 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 25 a;

FIG. 28 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of an eighth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views for the eighth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of FIGS. 25 a-27);

FIG. 28 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 28 a;

FIG. 28 c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 28 a;

FIG. 29 a is a front elevation view of a ninth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the rear elevation view, left elevation view and right elevation view are mirror images of the front elevation view);

FIG. 29 b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 29 a;

FIG. 29 c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 29 a;

FIG. 30 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 29 a;

FIG. 30 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 29 a;

FIG. 31 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 29 a;

FIG. 32 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a tenth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views for the tenth embodiment are the same as for the embodiment of FIGS. 29 a-31);

FIG. 32 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 32 a;

FIG. 32 c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 32 a;

FIG. 33 a is a front elevation view of an eleventh additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the rear elevation view is a mirror image of the front elevation view);

FIG. 33 b is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 33 a (the left elevation view is a mirror image of the right elevation view);

FIG. 33 c is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 33 a;

FIG. 33 d is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 33 a;

FIG. 34 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 33 a;

FIG. 34 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 33 a;

FIG. 35 is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 33 a;

FIG. 36 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of a twelfth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the elevation views and top and bottom views for the twelfth embodiment are the same, respectively, as for the elevation views and top and bottom views of the embodiment of FIGS. 33 a-35);

FIG. 36 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 36 a;

FIG. 36 c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 36 a;

FIG. 37 a is a front elevation view of a thirteenth additional embodiment of a heating system for transdermally delivered materials (the rear elevation view and side elevation views are each a mirror image of the front elevation view);

FIG. 37 b is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 37 a;

FIG. 37 c is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 37 a;

FIG. 38 a is an exploded bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 37 a;

FIG. 38 b is an exploded top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 37 a; and

FIG. 38 c is an exploded section view of the embodiment of FIG. 37 a.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Some example embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. In general, such embodiments can be used in a variety of applications, and it should be noted that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. For example, embodiments of the invention can be used in applications such as injury treatment and rehabilitation, physical therapy, massage, diagnostic and other medical procedures, cosmetology, and nutrition. The materials used in such applications can include any materials suitable for topical application and/or transdermal delivery, examples of which include drugs, medicines, nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and beauty products. Other example materials include edible materials, and materials with industrial applications such as grease and other lubricants.

In many instances, such materials are in the form of, or carried by, a gel, lotion, balm, salve, cream or ointment that can be applied to the skin and/or other parts of a subject. When such materials are heated using embodiments of the invention, these materials may be applied to a subject and/or absorbed relatively more quickly by the subject than would otherwise be the case. Examples of such subjects include humans and animals, although embodiments of the invention can have uses that do not involve materials that can be applied to a human or animal.

Although various disclosed embodiments are contemplated for use with materials that could be applied to, or otherwise used by, humans and/or animals, it should be understood that the scope of the invention is not so limited. In fact, at least some of the disclosed embodiments can be used in connection with any material(s) that require, for example, one or more of heating, partial melting, or complete melting, for use. Thus, at least some embodiments of the invention could be used in applications as varied as food preparation and cooking applications, industrial applications, veterinary applications, and laboratory applications, to name a few examples. Still other applications will be apparent to the person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

A. Aspects of Some Example Embodiments

With attention now to FIGS. 1-3, details are provided concerning a heating system, example embodiments of which are indicated at 100 in the Figures. In general, the heating system 100 may include a container 200 that includes a container body 202 and a removable lid 204 attached to the container body. The removable lid 204 can attached to the container body 202 in any suitable way. For example, the removable lid 204 and container body 202 can each have complementary threads, or the removable lid 204 can remain in place on the container body 202 with a slip, friction or snap fit. In other embodiments, the removable lid 204 and/or container body 202 can be magnetic, or include one or more magnets, so that a magnetic force tends to retain the removable lid 204 on the container body 202.

In some instances, the container 200 may be a single-use disposable container that is pre-filled with one or more materials. In this example, the container 200 thus constitutes a consumable item that can be discarded and replaced with another container. In yet other embodiments, the container 200 may be made of recyclable materials. In still other embodiments, the container 200 may be made for repeated use. As well, the container 200 is made of biodegradable materials in some embodiments.

In terms of its construction, the container 200, including one or both of the container body 202 and a removable lid 204, can be made of any suitable materials, including any one or more of rubber, plastic, metal, glass, composites, ceramic, paper, or cardboard. Where permeable materials such as paper or cardboard are used in the construction of the container 200, including one or both of the container body 202 and a removable lid 204, those materials may be coated with a moisture-proof or moisture-resistant coating. The container 200, including one or both of the container body 202 and a removable lid 204, may be rigid, or semi-rigid. In some embodiments, part or all of the container 200 can include thermal insulation to aid in heat retention.

As indicated in FIGS. 1-3, some example containers 200 may have a generally cylindrical shape, although the scope of the invention is not limited to any particular shape. For example, other container shapes include square, rectangular, round, pyramidal, or conical. Likewise, dimensions such as the height, diameter and width of the container 200 can be selected as desired. While not specifically illustrated, containers in accordance with embodiments of the invention may be releasably lockable to the base so as to prevent removal of the container when the heating element, discussed below, is operating. Such locks can be configured to release the container once the heating element temperature has dropped to a defined temperature.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1-3, the example heating system 100 further includes a heating assembly 300 that includes a heating element (see FIG. 4) arranged for substantial contact with the container 200. In the example of FIGS. 1-3, the container 200 rests on top of the heating assembly 300. However, the positioning of these elements can be reversed such that the heating assembly 300 rests on top of the container 200. In this latter configuration, the heating assembly 300 can also serve as a removable lid 204 for the container 200. As further indicated in FIGS. 1-3, the container 200 and heating assembly 300 may be configured such that they fit closely together with each other to define a substantially continuous outer surface 102 of the heating system 100.

With particular reference to FIG. 2, at least some embodiments of the heating assembly 300 and/or the container 200 can include one or more heat sensitive elements 302 in thermal communication with the heating assembly 300 and/or container 200. In operation, the heat sensitive element 302 changes its color in relation to a relative temperature of one or more of the container 200, heating assembly 300, or material disposed in the container 200. For example, the heat sensitive element 302 may turn a first color when it is at a first temperature, or in a first range of temperatures, and the heat sensitive element 302 may turn a second color when it is at a second temperature, or in a second range of temperatures. The heat sensitive element 302 thus enables a user to verify whether or not the materials in the container 200 are at a desired temperature. It should be noted that any other device(s) having functionality comparable to that of the heat sensitive element 302 may alternatively be employed. Moreover, the heat sensitive element(s) 302 can be positioned in any location(s) on or in the heating system 100 that enables the aforementioned functionality.

B. Aspects of an Example Heating Assembly and Components

Turning now to FIG. 4, further details are provided concerning an example heating assembly 300. As indicated there, the heating assembly 300 may include a base 304 that supports a heating element 306. The base 304 and heating element 306 may be integral with each other, or can be separate parts that are removably, or permanently, attached to each other. Where the base 304 and heating element 306 are removably attached to each other, such attachment can be effected, for example, by a threading engagement between the two parts. The base 304 may, alternatively, define a recess in which the heating element 306 can be removably placed. In this configuration, the weight of the heating element 306 may serve to retain it in the base 304.

The base 304 and/or heating element 306 can be made of, or include, any suitable materials, examples of which include metal, glass, or ceramic. As well, one or both of the base 304 and heating element 306 can be coated with one or more of the aforementioned materials, and/or with rubber, plastic, or paint for example. The base 304 and/or heating element 306 may include thermal insulation on their respective exterior portions. In some embodiments, the base 304 is weighted to provide resistance to being tipped or knocked over.

The heating element 306 can be electrically powered, such as by A/C or D/C current and, in one example embodiment, takes the form of a resistance heater that generates heat when power is applied to it. Other suitable heater types can additionally, or alternatively, be employed. For example, the heating element can be an induction-based heating element that remains cool to the touch and only generates heat when in contact with a metallic object, such as some embodiments of the container. In some instances, the heating element 306 comprises or includes a material with relatively high heat retention qualities, such as ceramic for example. Such configurations can be heated quickly, such as in a microwave oven for example, and then placed in thermal communication with the container 200, where the heating element 306 can transfer heat to the container for a relatively long period of time. These configurations of the heating element 306 may, or may not, also include an electrically powered heater.

With continued attention to FIG. 4, and directing attention now as well to FIGS. 5 and 6, further details are provided concerning aspects of example embodiments of the heating element 306. As indicated in those Figures, the heating element 306 and container 200 are generally configured so that the container 200 encloses a portion, which may be a substantial portion, of the heating element 306. As a result of this configuration and arrangement of the heating element 306 and container 200, and as best indicated in FIG. 6, the heating element 306 is operable to heat material in the container 200 from a location within the outer walls 206 of the container 200.

As further indicated in FIGS. 4-6, the heating element 306 may have a generally conical shape, although that is not required. Other shapes for the heating element 306 include cylindrical and pyramidal. As indicated in FIGS. 4-6, the outer surface of the heating element 306 may have a generally concave shape while the corresponding portion of the recess 208 that contacts the heating element 306 may be generally convex. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to any particular shape, or shapes, for the heating element 306 and recess 208. In some instances at least, the shape of the heating element 306 may be selected to achieve a heat transfer area of a desired size. Moreover, the scope of the invention is not limited to any particular dimensions or aspect ratios (such as, e.g., width:height) for a heating element.

As well, although the example heating element 306 is generally symmetric about its vertical axis A-A (FIG. 6), other embodiments of the example heating element 306 are asymmetric about their vertical axis. Further, although the example heating element 306 can be generally vertical in its orientation, that is not required, and one or more other embodiments of the heating element may have a non-vertical orientation. In all of the aforementioned example embodiments, the container 200 is configured to include a shape and orientation that are complementary to the shape and orientation of the heating element.

More generally, any configuration of the heating element 306 which enables at least a portion, and a substantial portion in some embodiments, of the heating element 306 to be enclosed by the container 200 can be employed. One example of such a configuration is the male (heating element 306)-female (recess 208) arrangement indicated in FIGS. 4-6, although the scope of the invention is not limited to this particular configuration.

While the Figures indicate a generally smooth outer surface 306 a of the heating element 306, that configuration is not required. Thus, in other embodiments, the outer surface of the heating element can be textured and/or include other surface treatments.

As best indicated in FIG. 6, embodiments of the container 200 are generally configured to define a recess 208 whose shape and size are complementary with the shape and size of the corresponding heating element 306. This complementary relationship may, for example, facilitate relatively better heat transfer from the heating element 306 to the container 200, and may also provide stability to the heating system 100 by virtue of a relatively close fit between the heating element 306 and the recess 208.

In some embodiments, the heating element 306 can include one or more protruding elements, such as a substantially vertical fin (not shown) for example that is received in a corresponding groove of the recess 208. Such a protruding element can serve to prevent rotation of the container 200 relative to the heating element 306, and can also help to ensure that the container 200 is oriented in a particular way relative to the heating element 306, should such orientation be useful. One or more protruding elements can also provide for enhanced heat transfer from the heating element 306, inasmuch as the surface area of the heating element 306 is increased, and conductive heat transfer is a function of surface area.

Although a single centrally located heating element 306 is indicated in FIG. 6, the scope of the invention is not so limited. For example, some embodiments can include multiple heating elements, at least one of which may be located off-center relative to a vertical axis defined by the container 200. Yet other embodiments can include a single off-center heating element. The corresponding containers in these alternative embodiments are configured with a shape, size and orientation that complementary with the heating element(s).

With continued reference to FIG. 6, the container 200 includes, as noted above, outer walls 206 that cooperate with the recess 208 to define an interior 210 of the container 200. Any material(s) desired to be heated by the heating element(s) 306 can be placed in the interior 210 of the container 200. Examples of such materials are disclosed elsewhere herein. One useful aspect of the particular shape of the interior 210 of FIG. 6 is that when a user inserts one or more fingers into the interior 210, the outer walls 206 and recess 208 may cooperate to direct materials in the interior 210 upward where they are more readily accessed by the user.

With reference now to FIG. 6 a, details are provided concerning a modified container 200 a having a container body 202 a configured to receive a lid 204 a. The container body 202 a includes an annular shoulder 203 a upon which the lower edge 205 a of the lid 204 a can rest. This lid and shoulder configuration can be employed in any of the disclosed embodiments, but is not required to be.

C. Aspects of Additional Example Embodiments

Directing attention now to FIGS. 7 a to 11 b, details are provided concerning various alternative embodiments of a heating system. It should be noted that still other example embodiments are discussed herein in connection with FIGS. 13 a-38 c, discussed below.

With attention first to FIGS. 7 a and 7 b, a heating system 400 is disclosed. The heating system 400 may be similar to, or the same as, any of the other disclosed embodiments, except for the respective shapes of the heating element 402, corresponding recess 404, base 406, container 408, and lid 410. With particular reference to the container 408, the embodiment in FIGS. 7 a and 7 b has a tapered shape that has a relatively smaller outside diameter at the base and a relatively larger outside diameter at the top. The lid 410 can be similarly tapered.

With attention now to FIGS. 8 a and 8 b, a heating system 500 is disclosed. The heating system 500 may be similar to, or the same as, any of the other disclosed embodiments, except for the substantially cylindrical shape of the heating element 502, corresponding recess 504, base 506, container 508 and lid 510.

With attention now to FIGS. 9 a and 9 b, a heating system 600 is disclosed. The heating system 600 may be similar to, or the same as, any of the other disclosed embodiments, except for the respective shapes of the heating element 602, corresponding recess 604, base 606, and container 608. The lid 610 may have a shape similar to the shape of other lids disclosed herein, such as lid 510 for example. Similar to other embodiments disclosed herein, the heating system 600 can include a heating element 602 that is electrically powered, and a power cord 612 can be provided for this purpose.

Turning now to FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, a further embodiment of a heating system 700 is disclosed. Similar to other embodiments disclosed herein, the heating system 700 includes a heating element 702, recess 704, base 706, and container 708. However, the heating system 700 differs somewhat from those embodiments in that the container 708 is fitted with a pump system 710. As indicated in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, the pump system 710 can include a delivery tube 712 that may extend a substantial distance into the container 708, possibly near, or at the bottom of the interior of the container 708. The delivery tube 712 can be rubber, plastic and/or any other suitable material(s). A pump head 714, which can be spring loaded or otherwise biased, is connected to the delivery tube 712 by way of a pump head inlet 716. As the pump head 714 is depressed, pressure is exerted on the interior 708 a of the container 708, causing the material in the container 708 to move upward in the delivery tube 712, and out of the pump head by way of the pump head outlet 714 a. When the pump head 714 is released, a spring or similar element (not shown) returns the pump head to its initial position prior to depression.

As a result of the configuration of the heating system 700, the user can easily dispense heated material from the container 708. It will be appreciated that the shape of the container 708, recess 704, heating element 702 and base 706 can take the size and/or shape of the corresponding elements of any of the other disclosed embodiments.

With reference now to FIGS. 11 a and 11 b, a further example embodiment of a heating system 800 is disclosed. Similar to other embodiments disclosed herein, the example heating system 800 includes a heating element 802, recess 804, base 806, container 808 and lid 810. Any one or more of the aforementioned elements may be shaped differently than the counterpart element in the other embodiments.

D. Aspects of an Example Control System

Turning now to FIG. 12, details are provided concerning a control system 900 that can be employed with any of the embodiments of the heating system disclosed herein. Among other things, the control system 900 can include a printed circuit board (PCB) 902 with circuitry to control a variety of functions relating to operation of the heating system 1000. As in the case of other embodiments disclosed herein, the example heating system 1000 includes a heating element 1002, recess 1004, base 1006, container 1008, and lid 1010. Among other things, the control system 900 can operate to activate and deactivate the heating element 1002, as described in FIG. 12. As well, embodiments of the control system 900 may include any one or more of: a thermostat and feedback loop to maintain the heating element 1002 at a desired temperature; auto shutoff circuitry for the heating element based on time and/or temperature (for example—if the container 1008 is sufficiently empty that there is not enough material to absorb heat generated by the heating element 1002, such that an over temperature condition could occur); a sound device that provides one or more audible signals concerning the heating system 1000—such as when the heating system 1000 is turned on or off; a timer, which can operate in conjunction with auto shutoff circuitry; a heat output control element to vary and control the output temperature of the heating element 1002; circuitry to prevent activation of the heating element 1002 if the container 1008 is not present and/or to shut off the heating element 1002 when the container 1008 is removed; and, container locking and release circuitry (as described earlier herein).

E. Design and Other Aspects of Some Example Embodiments

With reference now to FIGS. 13 a-38 c, details are provided concerning various aspects, including designs, of some additional embodiments of the invention. Turning first to FIGS. 13 a-15, an embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1100. The heating system 1100 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1100 includes a container body 1102 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1104 that includes a base 1104 a and a heating element 1104 b. The heating element 1104 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1104 a. A removable lid 1106 releasably engages the top of the container body 1102.

Turning next to FIGS. 16 a-16 c, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1200. The heating system 1200 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1200 includes a container body 1202 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1204 that includes a base 1204 a and a heating element 1204 b. The heating element 1204 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1204 a. A removable lid 1206 releasably engages the top of the container body 1202.

Turning next to FIGS. 17 a-19, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1300. The heating system 1300 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1300 includes a container body 1302 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1304 that includes a base 1304 a and a heating element 1304 b. The heating element 1304 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1304 a. A removable lid 1306 releasably engages the top of the container body 1302.

Turning next to FIGS. 20 a-20 c, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1400. The heating system 1400 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1400 includes a container body 1402 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1404 that includes a base 1404 a and a heating element 1404 b. The heating element 1404 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1404 a. A removable lid 1406 releasably engages the top of the container body 1402.

Turning next to FIGS. 21 a-23, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1500. The heating system 1500 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1500 includes a container body 1502 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1504 that includes a base 1504 a and a heating element 1504 b. The heating element 1504 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1504 a. A removable lid 1506 releasably engages the top of the container body 1502.

Turning next to FIGS. 24 a-24 c, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1600. The heating system 1600 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1600 includes a container body 1602 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1604 that includes a base 1604 a and a heating element 1604 b. The heating element 1604 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1604 a. A removable lid 1606 releasably engages the top of the container body 1602.

Turning next to FIGS. 25 a-27, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1700. The heating system 1700 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1700 includes a container body 1702 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1704 that includes a base 1704 a and a heating element 1704 b. The heating element 1704 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1704 a. A removable lid 1706 releasably engages the top of the container body 1702.

Turning next to FIGS. 28 a-28 c, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1800. The heating system 1800 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1800 includes a container body 1802 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1804 that includes a base 1804 a and a heating element 1804 b. The heating element 1804 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1804 a. A removable lid 1806 releasably engages the top of the container body 1802.

Turning next to FIGS. 29 a-31, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 1900. The heating system 1900 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 1900 includes a container body 1902 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 1904 that includes a base 1904 a and a heating element 1904 b. The heating element 1904 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 1904 a. A removable lid 1906 releasably engages the top of the container body 1902.

Turning next to FIGS. 32 a-32 c, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 2000. The heating system 2000 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 2000 includes a container body 2002 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 2004 that includes a base 2004 a and a heating element 2004 b. The heating element 2004 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 2004 a. A removable lid 2006 releasably engages the top of the container body 2002.

Turning next to FIGS. 33 a-35, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 2100. The heating system 2100 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 2100 includes a container body 2102 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 2104 that includes a base 2104 a and a heating element 2104 b. The heating element 2104 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 2104 a. A removable lid 2106 releasably engages the top of the container body 2102.

Turning next to FIGS. 36 a-36 c, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 2200. The heating system 2200 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 2200 includes a container body 2202 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 2204 that includes a base 2204 a and a heating element 2204 b. The heating element 2204 b can be permanently, or releasably, connected to the base 2204 a. A removable lid 2206 releasably engages the top of the container body 2202.

Turning finally to FIGS. 37 a-38 c, another embodiment of a heating system is designated generally at 2300. The heating system 2300 may be similar, or identical, to other disclosed embodiments in terms of its general structure and operation. Thus, the heating system 2300 includes a container body 2302 configured to releasably engage a heating assembly 2304 that is integrated with a removable lid 2306 and includes a heating element 2304 a. The removable lid 2306 releasably engages the top of the container body 2302.

It will be appreciated that any one or more elements of any one or more embodiments can be combined with any one or more elements of any one or more other embodiments, so as to define still further embodiments. By way of illustration, any of the containers disclosed herein can be combined with any of the heating elements to define still further embodiments within the scope of the invention and, accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically illustrated in the figures. For More broadly, the scope of the invention includes what would be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A heating system suitable for use with materials for topical application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject, the heating system comprising: a heating element; and a container, comprising: a container body defining an interior volume and configured to enclose a portion of the heating element when the heating element is received within the container body; and a removable lid configured to be attached to the container body.
 2. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container body encloses a substantial portion of the heating element when the heating element is engaged with the container body.
 3. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container body includes an outer wall within which a recess is defined that is configured to receive a portion of the heating element.
 4. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating element is asymmetric about its vertical axis.
 5. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating element and container body fit together in a male-female relation.
 6. The heating system as recited in claim 5, wherein the heating element has a male form and the container body has a corresponding female form.
 7. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container is a consumable item.
 8. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating element is connected to the removable lid.
 9. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the container is a dispensing container that includes a pump operable, when material is present in the container body, to dispense the material from the container.
 10. The heating system as recited in claim 1, wherein the heating element is operable to be activated and/or deactivated in response to exertion of a downward force on the lid.
 11. A heating system suitable for use with materials for topical application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject, the heating system comprising: a heating element; a container, comprising: a container body defining an interior volume and configured to enclose a portion of the heating element when the heating element is engaged with the container body; and a removable lid configured to be attached to the container body; power circuitry connected to the heating element; and control circuitry for operation of the heating element, wherein the control circuitry is connected with the power circuitry.
 12. The heating system as recited in claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is configured to include an activation switch that causes the heating element to be energized when a user presses down on the container.
 13. The heating system as recited in claim 11, wherein the heating element and container body fit together in a male-female relation.
 14. The heating system as recited in claim 11, wherein in operation, the heating element is located outside of the container body.
 15. The heating system as recited in claim 14, wherein the container body includes an outer wall defining a recess that is configured to receive a portion of the heating element.
 16. An apparatus, comprising: a heating system comprising: a heating element; and a container, comprising: a container body defining a volume and configured to enclose a portion of the heating element when the heating element is engaged with the container body, and the heating element and container body fit together in a male-female relation; and a removable lid configured to be attached to the container body; and a volume of material suitable for topical application and/or transdermal delivery to a subject, the volume being disposed in the container.
 17. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein the container body includes an outer wall defining a recess that is configured to receive a portion of the heating element.
 18. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein in operation, the heating element is located outside of the container body.
 19. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising a volume of material disposed in the container body.
 20. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, wherein the volume of material disposed in the container body comprises one or more of a gel, lotion, cream, balm, ointment, or edible material. 